Will Mellor turned to alcohol after tragically losing dad to cancer in lockdown

Will Mellor has opened up about turning to booze after his dad died during the height of the lockdown following a short cancer battle.

The 44-year-old actor, known for his roles in Hollyoaks and Broadchurch, was heartbroken to learn that his dad Bill had been diagnosed with cancer in April 2020.

Just two weeks after the diagnosis, Will's dad suddenly passed away.

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Will was unable to be close to his dad because of social distancing measures.

Reflecting on his difficult year, Will revealed that he found comfort in drinking alcohol - but eventually turned his attention to fitness instead.

"It was really tough. It's been the hardest year," he told New magazine.

"My dad passed away in April so I was struggling with a lot of stuff. I probably drank more than I ate.

He added: "I was getting through lockdown with wine and beer, and then realised that wasn't a good idea, so I started to get into fitness.

During his interview, Will also spoke about the heartbreaking moment that he learned that his dad had cancer.

Will recalled the "horrendous" experience of not being able to hug Bill at the time.

The actor added: "When I found out it was cancer, I went and sat in his garden five metres away from him. I was talking to him, but I couldn't hug him.

"And the last thing he said to me was, 'If I got hold of you I wouldn't be able to let you go'. He went two weeks later. He was 76."

Since losing his dad in April, Will has spoken of the fond memories that he has of his "hero" dad.

Appearing on Lorraine earlier this year, the Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps star reflected on the "amazing memories" that he had of his dad.

He also urged people that were struggling through similar situations to stick together through the painful experience of losing a loved one.

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